RICS Level 2 Survey in Burrington, Herefordshire

A RICS Level 2 Survey, formerly known as the HomeBuyer Report, provides a detailed assessment of a property's condition without the exhaustive detail of a full building survey. Our inspectors examine all accessible areas of the property, from the roof structure down to the foundations, identifying defects that could affect value or safety. For Burrington's distinctive properties, many dating back centuries with the Church of St George originally dating to the 13th century, our surveyors understand the common issues affecting historic buildings in this area.

The survey includes a thorough visual inspection of the property's exterior walls, roof, windows, doors, and internal fixtures. We check for signs of damp, rot, structural movement, and defects in the construction that might not be visible to the untrained eye. In a village like Burrington, where properties include historic farmhouses, converted agricultural buildings, and Georgian and Victorian homes, our inspectors bring specific expertise in the construction methods and materials typical of Herefordshire properties.

We provide a clear, easy-to-read report that categorises any issues found using a traffic light system, highlighting defects that require immediate attention versus those that are minor or purely cosmetic. The report includes practical advice on maintenance and any recommended follow-up inspections, giving you the information needed to make an informed decision about your property purchase in Burrington. Our team will also provide market value and insurance rebuilding cost guidance specific to the local area.

During the inspection, we pay particular attention to elements that are commonly problematic in Herefordshire's older properties. This includes checking the condition of solid wall construction, which is prevalent in many Burrington homes, and assessing any signs of movement that may have occurred over the building's lifespan. We examine rainwater goods carefully, as blocked or damaged gutters can lead to serious damp issues in traditional stone buildings.

• Visual inspection of all accessible areas
• Identification of defects and potential issues
• Traffic light rating system for condition
• Practical maintenance advice
• Advice on urgent repairs
• Market value and insurance rebuilding cost guidance

Burrington's position near the River Teme means some properties may be located in areas with potential flood risk. Our surveyors are familiar with the local geography and will note any signs of past flooding, water damage, or drainage issues that could affect a property. We examine ground floor levels, cellar or basement areas, and any evidence of water staining or damp that might indicate previous flooding events. Given the proximity to the River Teme, this is particularly important for properties in lower-lying parts of the village.

The local geology, featuring sandstone and limestone bedrock, influences construction methods and can affect foundations and subsurface conditions. Understanding these local factors is crucial when assessing any property in the Burrington area. Many properties in the village are constructed using local sandstone rubble with ashlar dressings, a traditional building method that our inspectors understand intimately. We know how to identify issues that can arise in these traditional constructions, such as deterioration of lime mortar pointing and movement in solid walls.

The village's housing stock represents a mix of periods and styles, from medieval through Georgian and Victorian to modern conversions. Properties in Burrington frequently feature local sandstone rubble, ashlar dressings, and plain tiled roofs, as seen in notable buildings like the Church of St George. Our inspectors understand these traditional construction methods and can identify issues common to older properties, such as movement in solid walls, deterioration of lime mortar pointing, and the condition of historic windows and doors.

With property prices having dropped 22% in the last year and 42% from the 2023 peak, buyers in Burrington need every advantage when negotiating. A detailed survey report can reveal issues that justify a price reduction or require the seller to address defects before completion. purchasing a £475,000 semi-detached home or a £678,333 detached property, the investment in a professional survey could save you thousands in unexpected repair costs. Our reports are detailed enough to form the basis of serious negotiations with sellers.

Based on our extensive experience surveying properties in Burrington and the wider Herefordshire area, we have identified several defect types that commonly affect homes in this village. Understanding these issues before you purchase can save you significant money and stress. Many properties in Burrington feature solid wall construction, which can be prone to penetrating damp if the external rendering or pointing has deteriorated. Our inspectors pay close attention to the condition of lime mortar pointing, as this is a common issue in older stone buildings where cement-based mortars have been incorrectly used in previous repairs.

Roof defects are another frequent finding in Burrington properties. The plain tiled roofs common to the area can suffer from slipped or broken tiles, particularly after periods of harsh weather. We inspect roof spaces thoroughly, checking for signs of past or current leaks, the condition of roof timbers, and the adequacy of insulation. For properties with original stone slate roofs, we assess the condition of individual slates and any replacement materials that may have been used.

Structural movement, whilst not uncommon in older properties, requires careful assessment. Properties built on the local sandstone and limestone geology can experience movement due to various factors, including changes in ground conditions and the natural settling of structures over time. Our inspectors are trained to identify signs of movement, including cracking to walls, doors and windows that no longer close properly, and differences in floor levels. We provide clear guidance on whether any movement observed is minor and stable or requires further investigation.

Damp and timber decay issues affect many properties in Herefordshire, and Burrington is no exception. We check for rising damp, penetrating damp, and condensation problems, particularly in properties with solid floors or limited ventilation. Our survey also includes assessment of any timber-framed elements, looking for signs of woodworm or rot that could compromise structural integrity. For properties with cellars, we assess the condition of any damp-proofing measures and note the overall state of these lower-level spaces.